NCJ Number
167802
Journal
Corrections Today Volume: 58 Issue: 5 Dated: (August 1996) Pages: 168-170
Date Published
1996
Length
3 pages
Annotation
Findings are presented from a 1994 survey mailed to all State prisons for women, so as to determine existing vocational and technical training programs for female inmates.
Abstract
Hawaii, Nebraska, North Carolina, West Virginia, and Wyoming reported that they did not have technical or vocational training programs for women. Florida reported that its program administration was in transition, and programs needed to be re- evaluated. Approximately 94 percent of the programs surveyed listed the provision of at least entry-level job skills as one of their stated goals. The goals of the remaining 6 percent were divided evenly between providing motivation and rehabilitation for long-term offenders and meeting ongoing institutional needs. Respondents from several States reported problems with old or aging equipment, especially with sewing machines and computers, which are not able to use newer software. Other problems include limited funding and budget constraints; an inability to hire competent civilian staff who are willing to work with offenders; inconsistent attendance; a low inmate pay scale; and low inmate self-esteem. Although some programming efforts have begun to address the particular needs of female inmates, many vocational and technical training opportunities lag far behind what they could and should provide. Generally, programs for women still are in five major categories: institutional maintenance, including clerical work, food service for the institution, and general cleaning and maintenance of the grounds; education, which is mostly remedial; vocational training, most often geared toward stereotypical jobs; treatment; and medical care. Recommendations offered by respondents are also summarized. 5 references